A new Barbie doll honors one of skating’s iconic figures.
Kristi Yamaguchi is the first Asian American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in figure skating. Yamaguchi paved the way for other female skaters, also serving as motivation for young girls to follow their dreams. Now, Mattel is celebrating the figure skater with a Kristi Yamaguchi Barbie doll.
The new doll is a part of the Barbie Inspiring Women series, and features Yamaguchi in a black figure skating leotard with gold accents, inspired by the costume the skater wore in the 1992 Winter Games in which she won gold. Other accessories include a gold ribbon in her hair, silver earrings, a bouquet, and white skates.
Collaborating with Mattel to create my Inspiring Women Barbie doll is a natural extension of our shared purpose, and I hope it serves as a constant reminder for young kids everywhere to follow their dreams.
Yamaguchi has continued to inspire young women beyond her performances on the ice. The skater is the author of several best-selling children’s books, including Dream Big, Little Pig! She also established Always Dream, an organization focused on improving children’s literacy with efforts such as increased access to books and encouraging family engagement.
“As the first Asian American to win a gold medal in the Olympics, [Yamaguchi] has broken down barriers for women and Asian Americans in the sports industry, inspiring young girls to, as Kristi Yamaguchi says, ‘Dream big and accomplish big things.’ Her determination, advocacy, and commitment to educating and empowering the next generation perfectly embodies the mission of the Barbie brand and we couldn’t be more thrilled to amplify her inspirational story for a new generation of kids,” says Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie and Global Head of Dolls, Mattel.
The Barbie Inspiring Women Kristi Yamaguchi Collectible Doll is available for preorder now for $35 at the Mattel Shop, Amazon, Walmart, and Target. Mattel’s Barbie will also donate a total of $25,000 split between Always Dream and ASPIRE (Asian Sister Participating in Reaching Excellence) in honor of the doll’s release.
